A Human-centered Conceptual Framework of EV Charging Decisions

Research on public charging station (PCS) selection has accumulated a large variety of variables that have been shown to affect charging behavior. We offer a human-centered framework to classify and integrate variables that have been described in the literature. Different from previous overviews, the framework focuses on the cognitive decision-making processes that are employed by human deciders. Every charging event includes a human decision that involves three dimensions: where to charge the vehicle (location), when to charge the vehicle (time), and for how long the vehicle is being charged (duration). The framework provides an overview of variables that have been studied in previous research and can be linked to these three dimensions. As a step to validate the framework, we asked 1,019 participants (including 667 owners of EVs or hybrid cars) how important each of 22 choice attributes would be for them when choosing a charging station. A factor analysis revealed the following six factors in descending order of perceived importance: costs, accessibility, time, past experience (self and other), amenities, and provider attributes. EV owners were also asked when and for how long they typically charge their vehicle. A factor analysis of the description of the time of charging confirmed a three-factor structure of range, finances, and habit. Results revealed systematic differences in the time and duration of charging between owners of hybrid cars and plug-in cars. Future research questions are discussed including the relevance of human-centered approaches for policies on charging station deployment and infrastructure planning.